Life Lessons for Jem and Scout in "To Kill a Mockingbird"

Summary: The Atticus Finch character teaches important life lessons to his children, Jem and Scout, in Harper Lee's classic novel, "To Kill a Mockingbird." The children learn to repsect guests in the home and elders, regardless of how society treats them. This shows in the Finchs' kind treatment of Tom and the maid.

In "To Kill a Mockingbird," Atticus taught his children that people are not what they seem. Until their true personality is discovered, the stories heard are only rumors. Jem and Scout did not get to know what a compassionate and caring person Mrs. Dubose was. Though often insulting, she ultimately displayed a kind and gentle heart. Do not judge a person before their true character is known, for knowing too late is not knowing at all. Tom Robinson was often looked down upon because he was of a colored race. He ended up convicted of rape after a series of slow and heart-wrenching trials. Tom was a friendly, helpful man who would often keep to himself. People would take one look at him and ignore him because he was a colored man. They would not take the time to get to know him for the person he was...